George Boyle
Planning a wedding can be an expensive affair, with the average cost of a traditional-sized wedding in 2024 estimated to be $33,000. As a result, many couples are opting for smaller weddings, which typically have lower expenses. The cost of a small wedding varies depending on the location, guest count, and other factors, but it can be a more budget-friendly option. Some choose to elope, have a micro-wedding with a small guest list, or opt for a backyard wedding to save on venue costs. Others suggest that catering and the wedding venue are the biggest expenses, so couples may choose to cut down on catering costs by having a potluck or BBQ, or opting for a restaurant reception.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average cost of a small wedding | $8,550 |
| Average cost of a traditional wedding | $33,000 |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in San Francisco | $16,833.64 |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in Miami | $15,392.02 |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in Detroit | Unknown (venue: $4,097.44; catering: $7,500) |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in Minneapolis | $6,622 |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in Cincinnati | $7,245.57 |
| Average cost of a micro wedding in Raleigh | $8,068.95 |
| Cost-saving options | Camping celebration, potluck meal, no wedding party, no DJ/band, backyard wedding, eloping |
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What You'll Learn
Small weddings are generally cheaper
The cost of a wedding is largely determined by the number of guests. As the guest list grows, so does the budget. This is because about half of the common expenses for a wedding are impacted by the guest count. A smaller guest list means you can save money on food, drink, and dessert, which tend to take up a large portion of the wedding budget.
A smaller wedding also gives you more flexibility with the venue. If you don't want to get married in a church or a traditional wedding venue, you could choose a park, botanical garden, restaurant, or even a friend or family member's home, which can be a good way to save money.
Additionally, with a smaller wedding, you may be able to splurge on other things, like a top-shelf open bar, unique venue, or amazing entertainment.
There are also other ways to save money on a small wedding. For example, you could have a potluck meal instead of hiring a caterer, create your own playlist instead of hiring a DJ, or minimize the wedding party to save on gifts, attire, bouquets, etc.
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The venue is a large cost
The wedding venue typically contributes to a large portion of the overall wedding cost. The good news is that having a small wedding opens up many possibilities for choosing a location. If you don't want to get married in a church or a traditional wedding venue, you could opt for a park, botanical garden, national or state park, restaurant, or even a bowling alley, which can be good cheap alternatives.
Many couples choose to have a backyard wedding at their own home or at the home of a friend or family member. This can be a great way to save on venue fees, but keep in mind that it will likely require more planning and upfront work compared to an all-inclusive venue. If you're open to the idea of eloping, you can choose a meaningful location and invite a small group of guests, avoiding the high cost of a traditional venue.
When it comes to venue costs, the location also plays a significant role. For example, San Francisco, California, is one of the most expensive cities for a micro wedding, with the venue cost averaging $11,767.14. In contrast, Detroit, Michigan, offers more affordable venue prices, with an average of $4,097.44.
If you're working with a tight budget, consider venues that offer hourly rates to keep costs down. Additionally, look for venues that have recently obtained their event license, as they may provide more affordable packages.
By choosing a small wedding, you can also take advantage of the growing trend of micro-wedding packages offered by traditional wedding venues. These packages are usually more affordable and tailored to smaller guest lists.
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Food and drink costs
There are many factors that influence the cost of food and drink at a wedding. The type of food and drink is a major factor. For example, traditional catering services can cost around $70 per person, whereas food truck catering is significantly cheaper at $20-$35 per person. Similarly, the type of food served can greatly influence the cost. Higher-end luxury meals like lobster, steak, and organic options will be much more expensive than cheaper options like tacos, barbecue, or pasta. The serving style will also influence the cost, with a formal sit-down meal being more expensive than a buffet or family-style service.
The number of guests is another important factor in determining food and drink costs. Even with cheaper food options, the cost per person can add up quickly for larger weddings. Couples can save money by limiting the number of guests.
Other ways to save on food and drink costs include limiting the alcohol options, skipping the champagne toast, and being mindful of the food served during cocktail hour. Couples can also consider a cash bar, where guests pay for their own drinks, or a limited bar with only wine, beer, and limited hard alcohol. Using a restaurant for catering can also be a more reasonable option than traditional wedding caterers.
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Guest count savings
The guest count is a major factor in determining the cost of a wedding. The average cost of a wedding with 50 guests is $8,550, while the average cost of a traditional wedding with 117 guests is $33,000. Therefore, reducing the number of guests is a significant way to cut costs.
With a smaller guest list, you can opt for a more unique and intimate venue. A smaller guest list opens up the possibility of choosing a location like a park, botanical garden, restaurant, or even a friend or family member's home, which can be much cheaper than a traditional wedding venue. For example, a venue in San Francisco for 50 guests costs on average $11,767, while the same in Detroit is $4,097, and in Minneapolis is $2,800.
Food and drink are also large portions of the wedding budget. With a smaller guest list, you can save money by having a potluck or BBQ instead of hiring a caterer. You could also ask your guests to bring a dish in lieu of a gift. If you want to include alcohol, a smaller guest list means you can splurge on a top-shelf open bar without breaking the bank.
A smaller wedding also gives you the opportunity to be more creative and thoughtful with your decorations and entertainment. You can save money by creating your own playlist instead of hiring a DJ or band, and you can ask certain guests to control the music. You can also save on costs by minimising or cutting the wedding party, which reduces expenses on gifts, attire, bouquets, etc.
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DIY and vendor packages
Small weddings are typically cheaper than larger weddings, with the cost of small weddings starting from $5,000. The cost of a wedding depends on several factors, such as the venue, food, decor, and the number of guests.
If you're looking to save money, one option is to go the DIY route. This can include creating your own decor, invitations, and bouquets, as well as opting for a less formal meal such as a buffet or food truck. Choosing a non-traditional venue, such as a public park or a family member's backyard, can also reduce costs.
Another option to consider is a vendor package. Vendor packages can offer a range of services at a fixed price, allowing you to stay within your budget. For example, the "Build Your Own Package" by Wedgewood Weddings offers flexibility by providing the essentials and allowing you to bring in your own vendors or add personalized touches. They provide a venue, tables, chairs, linens, silverware, glassware, and an onsite culinary team. You can further customize your package with decor, a wedding cake, and a bar.
All-inclusive wedding packages are another option, especially for destination weddings. These packages can include introductions to trusted vendors, expert advice, and venue tours. Tropical destinations often offer all-inclusive packages to help couples save time, money, and reduce planning stress.
Whether you choose to DIY or go with a vendor package, small weddings can be intimate and memorable while still being budget-friendly.
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Frequently asked questions
Small weddings are generally cheaper than larger weddings, as the cost is usually impacted by the number of guests. The average cost of a small wedding with 50 guests or fewer is $8,550, while the average cost of a traditional wedding with 117 guests is $33,000.
There are several ways to save money on a small wedding, including:
- Choosing a non-traditional venue, such as a public park, a friend's backyard, or a restaurant.
- Opting for a potluck or BBQ meal instead of hiring a caterer.
- Limiting the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.
- Creating your own music playlist instead of hiring a DJ or band.
Some of the most affordable cities for a small wedding in the US include Minneapolis, Minnesota ($6,622 on average), Cincinnati, Ohio ($7,245.57 on average), and Raleigh, North Carolina ($8,068.95 on average).
